Question

A nurse in an ED is triaging clients following an explosion at a local factory. Which client should the nurse ID as the priority?

A. A client with a minor abrasion on the arm.
B. A client with singed facial hair and shortness of breath.
C. A client with a fractured leg.
D. A client with a laceration on the hand.

Answer 1

The highest priority should be given to the client with singed facial hair and shortness of breath due to the potential for serious airway complications. Principles of triage focus on providing immediate care to prevent loss of life while managing other injuries based on severity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse in an Emergency Department (ED) should identify the client with singed facial hair and shortness of breath as the priority following an explosion at a local factory. This client is likely to be experiencing inhalation injury or airway damage, which could quickly become life-threatening if not treated immediately. Triage principles prioritize patients who need immediate care to prevent death or significant harm over those with less severe injuries.

For instance, a patient admitted to a burn unit with severe burns is likely to undergo fluid resuscitation treatment, and their condition is closely monitored to prevent complications such as shock. Similarly, in a scenario involving a patient with multiple traumatic injuries and severe bleeding, type O negative blood may be transfused as it is the universal donor type and can be given to patients of any blood type in critical emergency situations where there is no time to determine blood type.